When we think of Salento, its crowded beaches and iconic places that attract thousands of tourists every year immediately come to mind. But there is a different Salento, authentic and far from the most beaten paths. In this three-day itinerary we will guide you to discover enchanting villages, paths overlooking the sea and hidden gems that (perhaps) you don’t yet know about. An experience that will reveal the truest soul of this land, where history, nature and ancient traditions coexist in perfect harmony.
Day 1: Morciano di Leuca and the Torrevado swimming pools
Start your journey from the characteristic village of Morciano di Leucaa center that seems to have come out of another era, with streets paved with light stone and a peaceful atmosphere that will make you forget the modern frenzy.
The Leuca Piccola Complex
The Leuca Piccola complex it is a fascinating place located in Barbarano del Capo, a hamlet of Morciano di Leuca, and is also known as Leuca Piccola del Belvedere. This site dates back to the 17th century and was an important stopping point for pilgrims traveling to Santa Maria di Leuca, known for being considered the “end of the earth” in the Christian imagination, where it was believed that the Adriatic and Ionian they met.
The complex consists of a fortified church-towerbuilt with the aim of protecting travelers from attacks by Saracen pirates. The church, dedicated to Saint Peter, has a massive structure that also served as a refuge. There crypt they hypogea underlying the complex are among the most evocative elements: here pilgrims could rest and refresh themselves before resuming their journey. The cisterns guaranteed an always available supply of water, a precious commodity for travellers, while the bed was paid for.
Legends linked to the Leuca Piccola Complex speak of underground tunnels that extended for kilometers, connecting this site directly to Santa Maria di Leuca, and which were used as an escape route in case of attacks. Some historians have speculated that some of these passages may have actually existed, making the site even more historically fascinating.
Today, the Leuca Piccola Complex can be visited and offers a unique testimony to the spirituality and devotion that characterized the pilgrimages of the past. During the summer months, from June to mid-September, the complex is open daily, while out of season it is possible to book guided tours, which also allow you to go up to the roof of the church to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The natural pools of Torrevado
The Torrevado Natural Pools they are a hidden wonder of the Ionian coast of Salento, located near the marina of Torre Vado, a seaside resort famous for its crystal clear waters. This stretch of coast is characterized by a series of rocky inlets that form real natural pools, created by the incessant action of the sea over the centuries.
The waters here are extraordinarily clear and have a cool temperature, which remains rejuvenating even during the summer months. These natural pools offer a unique bathing experience, far from crowded sandy beaches, allowing you to immerse yourself in a peaceful and wild environment, surrounded by jagged rocks and Mediterranean vegetation.
The area is perfect for those who love snorkeling, thanks to the clarity of the water which allows you to observe the seabed, populated by small fish and other forms of aquatic life. The Torrevado Natural Pools they are easily accessible and ideal for those looking for a corner of peace and contact with nature, even in the busiest periods of the tourist season.
Don’t forget to explore the Torrevado Watchtowerone of the many coastal towers that dot the Ionian coast and which tell stories of defense and sightings.
Day 2: Taurisano, Ugento and the Parisi Illuminations
The second day will take you to the heart of the Salento hinterland, to discover villages with unexpected charm. The first stage is Taurisanoa small village with a great history. The philosopher and theologian Giulio Cesare Vanini was born here, one of the most important thinkers of European humanism. Walking through the historic center, you reach the Mother Churchwith its imposing decorated dome.
The village is also famous for its illuminationsand you can’t miss a visit to the laboratory Parisiactive since 1876. Here, with great passion, the lights that illuminate the celebrations throughout Puglia are created. You can observe the entire process, from carving the wood to installing the colored lights, and discover how these works of art have become a symbol of local celebrations.
In the afternoon, head to Ugentoa town that will surprise you with its Archaeological Museumlocated inside an ancient convent. The exhibits on display tell the long and fascinating history of the area. When evening falls, let yourself be enchanted by the lights that decorate Piazza San Vincenzowhere you will also find the majestic Sound boxsymbol of local musical traditions. Even if the lights are not turned on out of season, the visual effect is still magical and will make you feel part of a celebration that has continued for centuries.
Day 3: Natural park and salt trails
The third day is dedicated to the uncontaminated nature of Salento.
The path to the peak over the sea
The trail connects Andrano to Tricasecrossing typical landscapes of Salento: dry stone walls, centuries-old olive trees and Mediterranean vegetation rich in scents. Along the route, which develops on dirt terrain and paved sections, you can enjoy views that range from the intense blue of the sea to the rocky profiles of the coast. This excursion is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in a wild environment, away from mass tourism, and walk in harmony with the slow rhythm of nature.
One of the most evocative points of the path is the view of the sheer cliffs that plunge into the sea, creating a spectacular contrast between the white rock and the dark blue water. Along the route, you will also come across numerous watchtowers, such as the Torre del Sassowhich testify to the strategic importance of this coast in the past, when it was used to defend the territory from enemy incursions.
Despite its coastal location, the trail is accessible and suitable for hikers of all levels, whilst offering more challenging sections for those looking for a challenge.
The Oak of the 100 Knights
Continue towards the legendary Oak of the 100 Knightsan imposing monumental tree which, with its over 700 years of life, is considered one of the most fascinating natural symbols of Salento. Located in the municipality of Tricasethis majestic one Vallonea Oak it is a rare example in Italy, a silent witness to centuries of history and local traditions.
The oak, which with its powerful branches covers an area of over 700 square meters, is shrouded in numerous legends. The most famous tells that, in medieval times, as many as 100 knights with their horses found shelter under its branches, hence its suggestive name. This anecdote gives the tree a mythical aura and transforms it into an unmissable stop for those who want to immerse themselves in the stories of Salento’s past.
In addition to its legendary value, the Oak of the 100 Knights It has environmental and cultural importance. There Vallonea Oak it is in fact a rare species, native to the Balkan area, and has found one of its last refuges in Salento. In the past, its acorns were used for tanning leather, an ancient practice that contributed to the local economy. Today the tree is a living monument, which represents the strength of nature and the profound bond between man and the territory.
The natural pools of Marina Serra
The natural pools of Marina Serra they are one of the hidden jewels of the Adriatic coast of Salento, located near the town of Tricase. It is a spectacular natural inlet formed by rocks, which have created salt water pools perfectly protected from the open sea. These pools offer a unique bathing experience, with calm and clear waters, ideal for those who want to swim in peace and relaxation, away from crowded beaches.
The water, with its characteristic crystalline blue colour, is always fresh and pleasant, and the natural context, with the rocks sculpted by the wind and the sea, creates a suggestive and intimate atmosphere. The natural pools of Marina Serra they are also perfect for those who love exploring the seabed or relaxing in the sun on the rocks, surrounded by the wild and uncontaminated beauty of this stretch of the Salento coast.
The salt routes
To end your trip to Salento in style, dedicate yourself to discovering the ancient salt routes, a set of coastal paths full of history and charm, which in the past were traveled by smugglers to transport the precious sea salt along the coast. These paths, which wind along the rugged coastline, represent a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a natural landscape of extraordinary beauty, walking on the same tracks left centuries ago by clandestine merchants.
The stretch between Guardiola and Funnuvojere is among the most evocative and panoramic, on one side, the sea crashes forcefully against the rocks, offering spectacular views and refreshing sprays of water, while on the other the mountain rises imposingly, creating a breathtaking contrast between the deep blue of the Adriatic and the intense green of the Mediterranean scrub. This landscape, with its vivid shades and wild nature, is a true paradise for lovers of excursions and walks in contact with uncontaminated nature.
